One of the most painful lessons in life is to realize that you have taken something for granted, that you have assumed something only to have it disproved in such a way as to make it impossible for you to deny. We often take things, and people, for granted, when we assume that everything will always stay the same or that everyone has what we have.

Sometimes we take it for granted that what we are doing is right. But have we actually proven it so from God's Word (1 Thessalonians 5:21)?

Sometimes we take it for granted that we understand a passage of Scripture. But are we willing to let it be tested and then accept the truth (Proverbs 23:23; John 17:17)?

Sometimes we take it for granted that certain "church work" will be taken care of, just because someone has always done it. Do we ever consider that that individual may be very weary of bearing the burden all alone (Galatians 6:2)?

Sometimes we take it for granted that there will always be people to do the work. But what if everyone had that attitude (Proverbs 20:4)?

Sometimes we take it for granted that those people that volunteer to help "have more time" than we do. But perhaps they just use their time more wisely or have their priorities properly placed (Ephesians 5:16; Matthew 6:33).

Sometimes we take it for granted that it is easier for someone else to put a lesson together or teach a class, or that he can do it "much faster than I can." But have you ever asked how long it took him, or how he developed that skill (2 Timothy 2:1-2, 15)?

Sometimes we take it for granted that when we disagree with the preacher that he must be wrong. Is this due to our own deep study on the subject or because he hit a little too close to home (Yes, preachers can be wrong too!) (2 Timothy 4:2-4)?

Sometimes we take it for granted that people are just going to up and repent on their own without our having to do anything. Is that what God's Word says (Galatians 6:1; 2 Thessalonians 3:6; James 5:19-20)?

Sometimes we take it for granted that we can have it all. God's Word says that there are many things you should not even want (Romans 12:2; 1 John 2:15-17)!

Sometimes we take it for granted that we will always have time "later on" to do those things. Is that so (James 4:14)?

Sometimes we take it for granted that God is going to accept our excuses instead of our repentance. Don't count on it (Matthew 7:21-23)!

Sometimes we take it for granted that our assumptions are fact. Nope (Matthew 5:17).

I hope that you have not seen yourself in the illustrations provided above. But don't take it for granted!